Willie Rodriguez - Mi Montuno (1966)

"Mi Montuno" (1966) is one of the most striking and influential albums in the discography of American Latin pianist, composer, and bandleader Willie Rodriguez. The record was released during the heyday of the New York Latin jazz scene on Fonseca Records.

The album's music is rooted in classic Cuban son and mambo of the 1950s, but is played with a powerful New York urban drive and jazz-inspired improvisational freedom.

Willie Rodriguez was a virtuoso pianist who perfectly understood the nature of the "montuno"—the cyclical, syncopated piano riff that serves as the foundation and engine for all Latin dance music. This album became a unique tribute to this essential element of the genre.